Alumni Interview: Sam Kramer
“Adventure Treks is such a special place where you can disconnect from the rest of the world. Whatever problems you may have, whatever anxieties, at AT you can let all that go, be yourself and experience nature. I truly found my love for the wilderness.”
AT alumni are true testaments to the long-term impacts of Adventure Treks communities. The lessons of resilience that arise during challenging expeditions and the friendships that last long beyond the summit often become the centerpiece of college application essays, senior theses, and post-grad career paths.
Simply put, AT alum don’t just get by in the real world; they show up ready to move mountains!
We caught up with AT alum Sam Kramer, who joined us as a student from 2016–2021 and then as an instructor from 2022–2024. Sam recently graduated from the University of Oregon after completing his thesis on inclusivity in outdoor spaces. He now works in Colorado at Challenge Aspen, a non-profit helping people with disabilities access and experience the outdoors.
In the interview below, Sam reflects on his AT friendships, priceless triumphs (like winning Iron Chef for the 6th time), and how persevering through challenges led him to discover and embrace his true identity and dedicate his life to outdoor adventure.
